Holly Holm's Career Shift: Former UFC Champion Leaves Promotion and Eyes New Opportunities

Holly Holm's Departure from UFC

Holly Holm, the former UFC champion known for her stunning victory over Ronda Rousey in 2015, has officially left the promotion and is now a free agent. Holm's knockout of Rousey, one of the most significant upsets in UFC history, showcased her incredible talent in the octagon.

Holm scored one of the most famous KO's in UFC history against Rousey. Credit: Getty

Holm's Rise to Fame

Rousey was a dominant force in the UFC, with a 12-0 record before facing Holm. In a surprising turn of events at UFC 193, Holm delivered a head kick that knocked Rousey out cold, earning her the UFC women's bantamweight title.

After parting ways with the UFC, Holm stated that she had two fights left on her contract but requested to explore other opportunities, which the UFC granted. Her agent, Lenny Fresquez, confirmed that Holm intends to continue her fighting career, considering both MMA and boxing options.

A Hall of Fame Career

Holm was inducted into the Boxing International Hall of Fame in 2022, boasting a remarkable career with 16 title defenses across a 38-fight boxing history. Transitioning to MMA in 2013, her victory against Rousey marked only her third fight in the UFC, where she later lost her title to Miesha Tate.

Holm lost her bantamweight title to Miesha Tate shortly after her victory over Rousey. Credit: Getty

Recent Challenges

Despite a successful career, Holm faced setbacks in her recent fights, including a submission loss to newcomer Kayla Harrison at UFC 300. Following this defeat, UFC CEO Dana White suggested it might be time for Holm to retire, but she expressed her desire to continue fighting.

In her own words, Holm reflected on her training and performance, acknowledging that she lost focus during the fight but remains committed to returning to the sport.

Future Prospects

With her iconic status, Holm is expected to have numerous opportunities in the fighting world. The newly launched Global Fight League (GFL) is a potential destination for her, as it aims to feature a diverse lineup of fighters and teams across multiple continents.

Holm's boxing career includes a stellar 33-2 record from 2002 to 2013. Credit: Getty